TRADER JOE'S, CAROLINA GOLD BARBEQUE SAUCE

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Common questions

Is TRADER JOE'S, CAROLINA GOLD BARBEQUE SAUCE healthy?

TRADER JOE'S, CAROLINA GOLD BARBEQUE SAUCE scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This barbecue sauce is ultra-processed, which limits its potential health score.

How processed is TRADER JOE'S, CAROLINA GOLD BARBEQUE SAUCE?

TRADER JOE'S, CAROLINA GOLD BARBEQUE SAUCE is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive TRADER JOE'S, CAROLINA GOLD BARBEQUE SAUCE's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Mustard Seed, Sea Salt, Spices count in its favor; Cane Sugar is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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TRADER JOE'S, CAROLINA GOLD BARBEQUE SAUCE

Trader Joe's
60 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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Near you

Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Condiments
Summary

This barbecue sauce is ultra-processed, which limits its potential health score. It contains a high amount of added sugar, contributing to excessive caloric intake without nutritional benefits. However, it includes some beneficial ingredients like tomato puree, garlic, and onion, which provide vitamins and antioxidants.

Key ingredients 17

Mustard Seed
Good

Whole food ingredient providing characteristic flavor and antioxidants.

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Sea Salt
Good

Unrefined mineral salt providing sodium and trace minerals with minimal processing.

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Spices
Good

Whole-food seasonings, antioxidant-bearing.

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Garlic
Good

Whole food with well-documented cardiovascular and immune benefits.

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Yellow Mustard
Neutral

Traditional prepared mustard made from distilled vinegar, water, and mustard seed.

Distilled Vinegar
Neutral

Common acidic condiment used for flavor and preservation.

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Water
Neutral

Basic liquid used for consistency and hydration.

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Tomato Puree
Neutral

Blended tomatoes providing base texture and natural flavor.

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Tomato Paste
Neutral

Concentrated tomatoes used for body and rich flavor.

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Corn Starch
Neutral

Plant-based thickener used to achieve desired sauce consistency.

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Worcestershire Sauce
Neutral

Complex fermented condiment used for savory depth of flavor.

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Molasses
Neutral

Barks-derived sweetener that adds distinct rich flavor and dark color.

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Tamarind
Neutral

Fruit pulp adding a tangy, sweet-sour flavor profile.

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Onion
Neutral

Whole food vegetable used for foundational flavor.

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Natural Smoke Flavor
Neutral

Derived from smoke to impart a traditional smoky barbecue taste.

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Xanthan Gum
Neutral

Common food gum used to stabilize texture and prevent ingredient separation.

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Cane Sugar
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

See more about Cane Sugar →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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